Tijuana River Contamination Crisis: A Five-Pillar Framework for Binational Solutions

The persistent contamination of the Tijuana River and nearby Pacific coastline stems from historic chronic infrastructure failures, insufficient operations and maintenance (O&M), and fragmented binational governance. This report presents both a synopsis of the problem and a comprehensive, long-term, and binational solution built around five mutually reinforcing pillars. Together, these pillars create a roadmap for eliminating dry-weather transboundary sewage flows, restoring coastal water quality, and establishing accountable and financially sustainable wastewater management in the San Diego-Tijuana region. By addressing these challenges comprehensively, the roadmap safeguards public health, supports economic resilience, and improves the overall quality of life for the communities and businesses across the San Diego-Tijuana binational region.